The School of English for Engaged Social Service (SENS)—a three-month transformative learning program under the International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB) to nurture young adults and mentor them as community leaders and agents of compassionate change—has announced that it is now accepting applications from prospective students for its 2027 study program.
Hosted by the INEB Institute, a non-profit center of higher education, INEB’s annual SENS program integrates English-language training with self-awareness and interpersonal support. Founded on an understanding of social and ecological challenges, the program is aimed at training young adults in social leadership, with an emphasis on sustainability—for the planet, for society, and for the human spirit. The 12-week course seeks to engender among its students the diverse skills and personal qualities needed to bring about personal, social, and ecological resilience.
INEB’s 2027 SENS program of intensive instruction will be held in Thailand under the theme “Starting Fresh—Learning to Rely on Each Other as We Build Something New” from 4 January–10 April. The application deadline is 9 November 2026.
“This is an opportunity for a deep and transformational cross-cultural experience, focused not only on English-language skill development but also on exploring each individual’s leadership potential—enabling all participants to learn, reflect, lead, transform, and grow as they fully engage with the program,” INEB announced. “We believe that every one of us holds a unique intelligence we have yet to fully realize. Together, we can start fresh and learn to rely on each other in this historically challenging time in the world.”
The INEB Institute was established by INEB with the intention of creating a model institute of higher learning offering study programs that integrate progressive practices and learning strategies with a focus on peace and reconciliation, environmental healing, alternative education, sustainable economics, and the capacity for spiritual growth and leadership. Embodying the principals of socially engaged Buddhism, the institute’s primary purpose is to help young people rediscover their fundamental interdependent nature while developing the skills to become agents of genuine social change.
“. . . the main theme for SENS 2027 [is] ‘Starting Fresh—Learning to Rely on Each Other as We Build Something New.’ INEB said, emphasizing: “We were not born to live, act, or suffer alone. We need a bold and fresh new beginning, and together we can do much!
“The challenges are at the planetary scale, and this is yet another reason we need each other. Let us learn together how to accept, and then take on the global situation we face, each in our own way. Let us discover the joy of learning and working together.”
INEB is a worldwide network of individuals and organizations who are committed to promoting and working toward social justice, compassionate societies, and world peace. INEB emphasizes the importance of developing an ethical, Dharma-based approach to its activities, and encourages members to work collaboratively and respectfully with individuals and organizations upon a foundation of shared values and aspirations. The network also advocates the importance of environmental sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources, and has promoted sustainable development practices in various communities.
“The SENS program seeks students who are committed to working for the larger good, who are able to listen attentively to others, and who can think independently,” INEB noted. “We extend a special invitation to English and other teachers with an interest in new methods, especially how we combine language skills training with encouragement of personal growth and social and ecological awareness.”
Click here for full details and application information
[SENS 2027 offers] a unique opportunity to improve your English and:
• Study with a small group working to build a healthy, just, and peaceful world.
• Live in a picturesque setting in the Thai countryside, participating in a wide range of activities inside and outside the classroom.
• Learn through inspiring poetry, stories, philosophy, and literature in English, as well as games, field trips, music, films, debates, and hard work.
• Meet and speak in English with leading monks, thinkers, organizers, and educators. Learn about Buddhism and key social issues facing Asia.
• English and language teachers can learn methods developed over seven years for integrating personal growth, social and ecological awareness, and rapid improvement in English skills within one intensive program. Many of these methods are applicable in high-school and university classrooms, as well as in teaching or tutoring outside the mainstream. (The INEB Institute)
INEB was formed in 1989 by the renowned Buddhist scholar and activist Prof. Sulak Sivaraksa and a group of Buddhist leaders seeking to apply the Buddhist teachings and principles to contemporary social and political issues. Through its global network, INEB works to promote understanding, cooperation, and connection among inter-Buddhist and inter-religious groups, and to actively address urgent global issues such as human rights, conflict resolution, and environmental crises.
Headquartered in Bangkok, INEB has established a wide range of social projects and outreach programs across the region aimed at overcoming suffering and empowering vulnerable communities through the practice of the Dharma and social engagement—such as education and training programs, community development projects, advocacy and lobbying efforts, and interfaith dialogue.
See more
International Network of Engaged Buddhists
INEB Institute
School of English for Engaged Social Service (SENS)
INEB – International Network of Engaged Buddhists (Facebook)
The INEB Institute (Facebook)
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